Lombardy | region, Italy | Britannica.com Lombardy Lombardy, Italian Lombardia, regione of northern Italy . It is bordered on the north by Switzerland and by the Italian regioni of Emilia-Romagna (south), Trentino–Alto Adige and Veneto (east), and Piedmont (west). Administratively, Lombardy consists of the provincie of Bergamo , Brescia , Como , Cremona , Lecco , Lodi , Mantova , Milano, Monza e Brianza, Pavia , Sondrio , and Varese . The capital is Milan . The resort town of Bellagio on Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy. © Index Open Overview of Milan. Contunico © ZDF Enterprises GmbH, Mainz Lombardy is divided physically into three parts from north to south—a mountainous Alpine and pre-Alpine zone; a zone of gently undulating foothills; and a zone of alluvial plains sloping gently to the Po River in the south. The Alpine division reaches a height of 13,284 feet (4,049 metres) in the Bernina.

The foothill zone is partly composed of morainic material and contains a number of scenic lakes. The regione is drained southward by many rivers, all of them tributaries of the Po, including the Ticino , the Adda, and the Oglio, with its affluents the Mella and Chiese, and the Mincio. The regione abounds in lakes and contains all or part of Lakes Garda (Italy’s largest lake), Maggiore, Lugano, Como, Iseo, Idro, and Varese and the lakes of the Brianza (Pusiano, Annone, Alserio, and Segrino). The climate is generally continental, with hot summers and cold winters, and rainfall varies from about 24 inches (610 mm) annually in the area near the Po River to 80 inches (2,032 mm) in the mountainous regions. Lombardy was inhabited by Celtic peoples from the 5th century bce and was conquered by Rome after the Second Punic War (218–201 bce), upon which it became part of Cisalpine Gaul .

The region suffered heavily in the barbarian invasions that ended the western Roman Empire, and from 568 to 774 ce it was the centre of the kingdom of the Lombards , a Germanic people who gave their name to the region. The Lombard kingdom ended in 774, and Lombardy became part of the empire of the Frankish king Charlemagne . Frankish rule continued until 887, and after the breakup of the Carolingian empire a number of independent units, mostly towns ruled by counts or bishops, emerged in Lombardy. Similar Topics Abruzzi These towns’ growing prosperity by the 11th century was based on the role of the middle Po River valley as a transit point for trade between the Mediterranean and the trans-Alpine lands. A number of Lombard towns—Milan, Cremona, Brescia, Bergamo—were able to throw off their feudal rulers and evolve into communes (self-governing municipalities) that became the commercial leaders of Europe at the time.

The Lombard communes reached the height of their power in the 12th century, when, in an effort to resist encroachments by the emperor Frederick I Barbarossa , they formed the Lombard League ; the league defeated the emperor at the Battle of Legnano in 1176 and forced him to recognize its members’ autonomy in the Peace of Constance (1183). Conflicts within the Lombard communes between Guelfs and Ghibellines were only resolved in the 13th and 14th centuries by the rise of overlords or despots , some of whom, such as the Visconti and Sforza in Milan and the Bonacolsi and Gonzaga in Mantua, founded local dynasties . Milan became the strongest city in Lombardy early in the 14th century and went on to establish its rule over most of the neighbouring towns, though it had to yield Brescia and Bergamo to Venice and the city of Mantua remained independent.

Lombardy lost territory to the Swiss, Venetians, and other neighbours in the early 16th century, and in the chaotic wake of the French invasions of Italy, the duchy of Milan came under Spanish Habsburg rule in 1535. Mantua managed to remain independent until 1713, at which time both it and Milan passed to the Austrian Habsburgs. Austrian rule yielded to that of France from 1796 to 1814. In 1815 Lombardy was restored to Austria as part of a newly created Lombardo-Venetian kingdom. In 1859 a Franco-Piedmontese army expelled the Austrians from Lombardy, which joined newly unified Italy. Britannica Stories Ringling Bros. Folds Its Tent Lombardy has the largest population of any Italian region, though it covers less than one-tenth of the country’s area. The population is concentrated in the industrial cities of the upper plains and foothills, with secondary concentrations in the rich farmlands in the south. Lombardy is the leading industrial and commercial regione of Italy.

Milan, the chief city, is one of the largest industrial centres of Italy. It makes iron and steel, automobiles and trucks, and machinery and is also a centre of banking and wholesale and retail trade. Lombardy’s other major cities include Brescia, Bergamo, Cremona, Pavia, Como, Mantua, and Monza. Their varied manufactures include electrical appliances, textiles, furniture, processed foods, chemicals, and leather. Lombardy Lombardy Historical region of northern Italy, now forming a separate administrative unit (regione) of Italy. Government and Population Administratively, Lombardy consists of 11 provinces (provincie): Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Cremona, Lecco, Lodi, Mantova, Milano, Pavia, Sondrio, and Varese. The capital city is Milan. Lombardy has the largest population of any Italian region, though it covers less than one-tenth of the country's area. The population is concentrated in the industrial cities of the upper plains and foothills, with secondary concentrations in the rich farmlands in the south. The local Lombard language is vigorously used.

Area: 23,857 square km (9,211 square miles). Population (1993 est.): 8,882,408. Geography Lombardy is bordered by Switzerland (north) and by the Italian regions of Emilia-Romagna (south), Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto (east), and Piedmont (west). It is divided physically into three parts from north to south--a mountainous Alpine and pre-Alpine zone; a zone of gently undulating foothills; and a zone of alluvial plains sloping gently to the Po River in the south. The Alpine division reaches a height of 4,049 m (13,284 feet) in the Bernina. The foothill zone is partly composed of morainic material and contains a number of scenic lakes. The region is drained southward by many rivers, all of them tributaries of the Po, including the Ticino, the Adda, and the Oglio, with its affluents the Mella and Chiese, and the Mincio.

The regione abounds in lakes and contains all or part of Lakes Garda (Italy's largest lake), Maggiore, Lugano, Como, Iseo, Idro, and Varese and the lakes of the Brianza (Pusiano, Annone, Alserio, and Segrino). The climate is generally continental, with hot summers and cold winters, and rainfall varies from about 610 mm (24 inches) annually in the area near the Po River to 2,032 mm (80 inches) in the mountainous regions. Economy Lombardy is the leading industrial and commercial region of Italy. Milan, the chief city, is one of the largest industrial centres of Italy. It makes iron and steel, automobiles and trucks, and machinery and is also a centre of banking and wholesale and retail trade. Lombardy's other major cities include Brescia, Bergamo, Cremona, Pavia, Como, Mantua, and Monza. Their varied manufactures include electrical appliances, textiles, furniture, processed foods, chemicals, and leather. Lombardy is also Italy's leading agricultural area.

The region's highly productive agriculture is centred on the irrigated plains of the Po River valley, which produce rice, wheat, corn (maize), sugar beets, and fodder crops for beef and dairy cattle. The higher plains produce cereals, vegetables, fruit trees, and mulberries. The foothill region produces fruit, vines, and olives, and the Alps afford excellent grazing for cattle, pigs, and sheep. Milan is the hub of northern Italy's rail network and has direct rail links with Switzerland, France, and Germany via passes and tunnels through the Alps. Lombardy is linked to other regions of Italy by an excellent system of railroads, highways, and expressways. History Lombardy was inhabited by Celtic peoples from the 5th century BC and was conquered by Rome after the Second Punic War (218-201 BC), upon which it became part of Cisalpine Gaul. The region suffered heavily in the barbarian invasions that ended the western Roman Empire, and from AD 568 to 774 it was the centre of the kingdom of the Lombards , a Germanic people who gave their name to the region.

The Lombard kingdom ended in 774, and Lombardy became part of the empire of the Frankish king Charlemagne . Frankish rule continued until 887, and after the breakup of the Carolingian empire a number of independent units, mostly towns ruled by counts or bishops, emerged in Lombardy. These towns' growing prosperity by the 11th century was based on the role of the middle Po River valley as a transit point for trade between the Mediterranean and the trans-Alpine lands. A number of Lombard towns--Milan, Cremona, Brescia, Bergamo--were able to throw off their feudal rulers and evolve into communes (self-governing municipalities) that became the commercial leaders of Europe at the time. The Lombard communes reached the height of their power in the 12th century, when, in an effort to resist encroachments by the emperor Frederick I Barbarossa, they formed the Lombard League; the league defeated the emperor at the Battle of Legnano in 1176 and forced him to recognize its members' autonomy in the Peace of Constance (1183).

Conflicts within the Lombard communes between Guelfs and Ghibellines were only resolved in the 13th and 14th centuries by the rise of overlords or despots, some of whom, such as the Visconti and Sforza in Milan and the Bonacolsi and Gonzaga in Mantua, founded local dynasties. Milan became the strongest city in Lombardy early in the 14th century and went on to establish its rule over most of the neighbouring towns, though it had to yield Brescia and Bergamo to Venice and the city of Mantua remained independent. Lombardy lost territory to the Swiss, Venetians, and other neighbours in the early 16th century, and in the chaotic wake of the French invasions of Italy, the duchy of Milan came under Spanish Habsburg rule in 1535. Mantua managed to remain independent until 1713, at which time both it and Milan passed to the Austrian Habsburgs. Austrian rule yielded to that of France from 1796 to 1814.

In 1815 Lombardy was restored to Austria as part of a newly created Lombardo-Venetian kingdom. In 1859 a Franco-Piedmontese army expelled the Austrians from Lombardy, which joined newly unified Italy. Lombardy (Milan) Information, Rentals, Demographics, Recreation, Culture, Attractions, History, Tourist Information and Transportation. Read User Comments Lombardy Information Lombardy is one of the 20 regions of Italy and it's capital is Milan. The region's total area is 9,206 sq mi and total population is 9,939,193 in 2011 estimation it has largest population of any Italian region it is the largest population of any Italian region. The population is concerted in the industrial cities of the upper plains and foothills, with secondary concentrations in the rich farmlands in the south. It is bounded by the Alps and Switzerland to the north and Emilia-Romagna to the south. Piedmonte and Valle D'Aosta boundary Lombardy to the west and the Veneto and Alto-Adige regions on the east.

The region is also an agricultural center, but an industrial and commercial one, as Milan is an international center of business and fashion. The region's official language is Italian and they are used local language is vigorously. Lombardy is home to Italy's well-known lakes Maggiore, Como and Garda that lie at the foot of the Alps. The city has many tourist destinations include the historic, cultural and artistic cities of Milan, Brescia, Mantua, Pavia, Como, Cremona, Bergamo, Sondrio, Lecco, Lodi, Varese, Monza, and the lakes of Garda, Como, Maggiore, and Iseo. Lombardy is a most important economic center, producing oï¿½ne fifth of Italy's GDP, and it is also a highly occupied area, including about one sixth of Italy's population. La Triennale di Milano Lombardy Recreation Culture and Attractions Lombardy people follow the hustle-and-bustle of modern life, like to that of most big northern European cities, might best describe life in Milan, which dominates Lombardy.

The region culture described as business-like which is suitable, as Milan is the business, finance, fashion, transportation, and information center of all Italy. In the epipaleolithic time Lombardy's culture was developed. Lombardy's food and wine is also of famous cultural interest. Rice is a popular crop in the region, included in risotto's and soups. Risotto alla Milanese is world famous. Lombardy produces numerous wines, but it is most notable for its luminous wines from Franciacorta and Oltrepo Pavese. There are many different types of museums. The fast pace of Milan and its environment is difference greatly with the life in the fields, and life in the smaller cities, towns and villages on the plains, on the lakes, and in the hills. But, overall, the people know how to live well with abundant good food, wine, art and culture, readily reachable outdoor activities, and sufficient vacation time in which to enjoy it. Lombardy's people like opera and soccer sports. Lombardy History Lombardy's history begins over two thousand years ago.

Long before the Romans occupied Italy, the Etruscans, a prehistoric tribe of unknown origin, spread to Lombardy from their base in Tuscany. The region suffered a lot in the barbarian invasions that finished the Western Roman Empire, and from AD 568 to 774 it was the center of the kingdom of the Lombards, a Germanic people who gave their name to the region. After a period of uncertainty, power increasingly passed from feudal lords to autonomous communes, and a general economic revival occurred. In the period of 11th and 12th century there was a quality Lombard Romanesque architecture, and throughout the Renaissance Lombardy had an affluent school of painting whose leading figures were Bernardino Luini and Gaudenzio Ferrari. The city of Milan was temporarily the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 4th century but was unnoticed by the victorious Lombards who, as well giving their name to the region, made Pavia the center of their kingdom.

Milan developed the strongest city in Lombardy early in the 14th century and went on to institute its rule over most of the neighboring towns, though it had to yield Brescia and Bergamo to Venice and the city of Mantua remained independent. The name "Lombardy" came to assign the full of Northern Italy until the 15th century and sometimes later. The region of Lombardy varied with the Roman populace of Lombardy, and the result is the rich and exclusive culture of Lombardy that persists to this day. Lombardy became one of the academic centers leading to Italian confederation. Now the Lombardy straddles a life of business and modernity with beautiful scenery, magnificent and peaceful lake towns are contrasted by the busy lifestyle of Milan. Lombardy Flag Lombardy Tourism Lombardy is one of the major tourist destinations in Italy. There are many tourism information offices for serve all tourist visitors. Milan is a big tourist destination for business travellers because a lot of tourists also spend a day or more there before moving on. Mainly the Milan is attracts the football fans, while Monza, just exterior the city, is the home of the Italian Grand Prix.

Art-lovers will not want to overlook the masterpieces in the city's galleries. Lombardy is the region that melds the famous city of Milan with the beauty of the Italian landscape. Lombardy Government The region of Lombardy has presidential representative democracy. The region executive power is trained by the Regional Government and legislative power is conferred in the Regional Council. The Italian Communist Party was a substantial existence only in the eastern and southern parts of Lombardy from the late 1960s to the mid 1980's. Now the region stayed as a conformist stronghold that gave about 60 per cent of its votes to Silvio Berlusconi at the last general election. Lombardy Economy The region economy mostly based secrets are agriculture, transportation, tourism, industries and commercial. Lombardy's economy is most developed for the growth of the region. The region can roughly be separated into three areas as regards the dynamic activity. Milan, where the services sector makes up for 65.3% of the employment; a group of provinces, Varese, Como, Lecco, Bergamo and Brescia, highly industrialized, while in the two latter ones, in the plains, there is also a rich agricultural sector.

Other economic manufactures include electrical appliances, textiles, furniture, processed foods, chemicals, and leather. Lombardy Geography Lombardy is one of the Italian regions. It shares their borders to the north Switzerland, to the south Italian regions of Emilia-Romagna, to the east Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto and to the west Piedmont. There are 3 distinct natural zones can be fairly simply renowned in the Lombardy region: mountains, hills and plains the latter being divided in Alta and Bassa. There are many great lakes of Lombardy, all of glacial origin, are establish in this area they are from west to east are Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano, Lake Como, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro, and Lake Garda, the largest in Italy. Lombardy has continental climate. Lombardy Information Sources Lombardy | Article about Lombardy by The Free Dictionary Lombardy | Article about Lombardy by The Free Dictionary Related to Lombardy: Lombardy poplar Lombardy (lŏm`bərdē), Ital. Lombardia, region (1991 pop.

8,856,069), c.9,200 sq mi (23,830 sq km), N Italy, bordering on Switzerland in the north. Milan Milan , Ital. Milano, Lat. Mediolanum, city (1991 pop. 1,369,231), capital of Lombardy and of Milan prov., N Italy, at the heart of the Po basin. Because of its strategic position in the Lombard plain, at the intersection of several major transportation routes, it ..... Click the link for more information. is the capital of the region, which is divided into the provinces of Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Cremona, Mantua, Milan, Pavia, Sondrio, and Varese (named for their capitals). Land and Economy Lombardy has Alpine peaks and glaciers in the north, several picturesque lakes, and upland pastures that slope to the rich, irrigated Po valley in the south.

The Valtellina Valtellina , Alpine valley of the upper Adda River, c.75 mi (120 km) long, in Lombardy, N Italy, extending from Lake Como to the Stelvio Pass. The main towns are Sondrio and Tirano. The valley is a fertile agricultural region, known for its wine. ..... Click the link for more information. valley is in the northeast. Rice, cereals, forage, flax, and sugar beets are the main crops of Lombardy, and the mulberry is extensively cultivated for use in sericulture. Milan is the chief commercial, industrial, and financial center in Italy, and Lombardy is the country's leading industrial region. Manufactures include textiles, clothing, iron and steel, machinery, motor vehicles, chemicals, furniture, and wine. There are universities at Milan and Pavia. History The Lombard plain, located in the central part of Lombardy at the confluence of several Alpine passes, has for centuries been a much coveted and frequently invaded area, and it has been a battlefield in many wars. First inhabited by a Gallic people, the region became (3d cent.

B.C.) part of the Roman province of Cisalpine Gaul. It suffered heavily during the barbarian invasions that took place toward the end of the Roman Empire. In A.D. 569 the region was made the center of the kingdom of the Lombards Lombards , ancient Germanic people. By the 1st cent. A.D. the Lombards were settled along the lower Elbe. After obscure migrations they were allowed (547) by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to settle in Pannonia and Noricum (modern Hungary and E Austria). ..... Click the link for more information. , for whom it was named. Lombardy was united in 774 with the empire of Charlemagne Charlemagne (Charles the Great or Charles I) [O.Fr.,=Charles the great], 742?–814, emperor of the West (800–814), Carolingian king of the Franks (768–814). ..... Click the link for more information. . After a period of confusion (10th cent.), power gradually passed (11th cent.) from feudal lords to autonomous communes, and a general economic revival occurred.

Trade between N Europe and the E Mediterranean was largely carried on via the Po valley, and Lombard merchants and bankers did business throughout Europe. In the 12th cent. several cities united in the Lombard League Lombard League, an alliance formed in 1167 among the communes of Lombardy to resist Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I when he attempted to assert his imperial authority in Lombardy. Previously the communes had been divided, some favoring the emperor and others favoring the pope. ..... Click the link for more information. in order to defy Emperor Frederick I, who wanted to assert his authority over the communes, and defeated him at Legnano (1176). The 13th cent. was marked by struggles between Guelphs (pro-papal) and Ghibellines (pro-imperial), which resulted in wars among cities and rivalries between families within cities. In the 11th–12th cent. there was a characteristic Lombard Romanesque architecture, and during the Renaissance Lombardy had a flourishing school of painting whose leading figures were Bernardino Luini and Gaudenzio Ferrari. Except for Mantua Mantua , Ital.

Mantova, city (1991 pop. 53,065), capital of Mantova prov., Lombardy, N Italy, bordered on three sides by lakes formed by the Mincio River. It is an agricultural, industrial, and tourist center. ..... Click the link for more information. (ruled by the Gonzaga Gonzaga , Italian princely house that ruled Mantua (1328–1708), Montferrat (1536–1708), and Guastalla (1539–1746). The family name is derived from the castle of Gonzaga, a village near Mantua. ..... Click the link for more information. family), Lombardy fell (14th–15th cent.) under the sway of the Visconti Visconti , Italian family that ruled Milan from the 13th cent. until 1447. In the 12th cent. members of the family received the title of viscount, from which the name is derived. ..... Click the link for more information.

family and the Sforza Sforza , Italian family that ruled the duchy of Milan from 1450 to 1535. Rising from peasant origins, the Sforzas became condottieri and used this military position to become rulers in Milan. The family governed by force, ruse, and power politics. ..... Click the link for more information. dukes of Milan. However, Bergamo and Brescia (1428) and Cremona (1529) were lost to Venice and the Valtellina valley was taken by the Grisons (1512). After the end (mid-16th cent.) of the Italian Wars Italian Wars, 1494–1559, series of regional wars brought on by the efforts of the great European powers to control the small independent states of Italy. Renaissance Italy was split into numerous rival states, most of which sought foreign alliances to increase their ..... Click the link for more information. , the rest of Lombardy followed the fortunes of Milan.

Spanish rule (1535–1713) was followed by that of Austria (1713–96) and of France (1796–1814). The Lombardo-Venetian kingdom was established under Austrian rule in 1815. Lombardy briefly ousted the Austrians in 1848–49; in 1859 they were permanently removed and the kingdom was dissolved. Lombardy an administrative region in northern Italy. It includes nine provinces: Bergamo, Brescia, Varese, Cremona, Como, Mantua, Milan, Pavia, and Sondrio. Area, 23,800 sq km. Population, 8.4 million (1970). Milan is the chief city. The northern part of the region contains the Lombard Alps (elevation, to 4,049 m in the Bernina massif) and the Pre-Alps; the remaining region consists of the Po Basin. The main river artery is the navigable Po River.

(Its tributaries, including the Ticino, Adda, and Oglio, are rich in hydroelectric resources.) Among the large lakes are Garda, Maggiore, and Como. Lombardy is Italy’s most developed economic region. It accounts for one-fifth of the industrial enterprises and nearly one-third of the labor force in Italian industry. Its hub is the Milan industrial region, which has well-developed machine building (radio-electronic, electrical engineering, and power equipment; machine tools; instruments; automobiles; airplanes), metallurgy (one-third of the steel produced in the country), chemicals (mineral fertilizers, dyes, synthetic rubber, plastics), and textile, garment, and food industries. Lombardy is the country’s main agricultural region, with most of the agricultural production concentrated in large capitalist farms. Of the productive land area (about 2 million hectares), arable land constitutes 49.1 percent, meadows and pastures 20.4 percent, orchards and vine-yards 2.3 percent, and forests 24.8 percent.

The main crops are corn (1.2 million tons in 1970), wheat (968,000 tons), and rice (279,000 tons). There are significant plantings of feed crops, and truck farming is also important. Dairy livestock raising is the main branch of animal husbandry (1.9 million cattle). T. A. G ALKINA The ancient name of Lombardy is Insubria, from the Celtic tribe of the Insubres. In the second century B.C Lombardy - Discover Italy Discover Italy Ai Weiwei at Palazzo Strozzi Florence hosts one of the giants of contemporary art Video Spas in Ischia Ischia is an island of fire and water and, of course, sun. In its spa parks - the most famous of which are Negombo and Poseidon - nature offers... Read more Syracuse of history and myth The magnificent Island of Ortigia is an essential stop for tourists visiting Syracuse: it is an exemplar of this city's joie de vivre, characterized...

You are in Home / Discover Italy / Lombardy Lombardy La Scala Opera House - Milan Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie - Milan - UNESCO Varenna - Lake Como Isola Bella - Borromean Islands - Lake Maggiore Livigno What to Do What to taste One of Italy’s largest regions, Lombardy lies in the north of the country, sharing a border with Switzerland. Stretching from the Alps to the lowlands of the Po Valley, it is home to a wide range of landscapes, including the breathtaking mountain chain that boasts the Valchiavenna, Valtellina and the Camonica Valley . Winter sports enthusiasts will find no lack of state-of-the-art facilities in Lombardy, for example in the extremely popular resorts of Tonale, Bormio , Livigno and Madesimo . Another aspect that defines the region is its expanse of rolling hills that encompass the distinctive Franciacorta area, famous for its vineyards and wine production.

The charm of the great lakes is a great tourist draw, attracting visitors to Sirmione and other well known destinations dotting the western coast of Lake Garda, while Lake Como and Lake Maggiore are no less beautiful, surrounded as they are by stately homes, parks and picturesque small towns. The region is also characterized by the great flat tracts of the Po Valley lowlands, covered by shimmering mirrors of water and rice paddies: this is the typical landscape of Lomellina, the land of rice harvesters, steeped in tradition. The region has countless other distinctive facets. Lombardy, aided by its geographic position and fertile soil, will captivate you - nature, history, art and culture marry in harmony with innovation, technology, fashion, entertainment, and a contemporary outlook. The region comprises the provinces of Bergamo , Brescia , Como , Cremona , Lecco , Lodi , Mantua , Milan (regional capital), Monza and Brianza , Pavia , Sondrio and Varese . The region has much to offer in terms of its natural, cultural and architectural perspective.

There are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites at Mantua , once ruled by the powerful Gonzaga family, and Sabbioneta, the defining “ideal city” of the Italian Renaissance; the Sacred Mountains , a devotional route in the Varese and Ossuccio area; the prehistoric rock paintings (petroglyphs) of the Camonica Valley ; the Rhaetian Railway that makes its way through the mountainous landscapes of Albula and Bernina; the 19th-Century industrial settlement of Crespi d’Adda and, finally, Milan , with the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie that contains the Last Supper, the celebrated Leonardo Da Vinci fresco. Still in Milan, a major architectural masterpiece is the renowned Teatro alla Scala . The imposing Duomo (Cathedral) is absolutely extraordinary, constructed in white marble and dedicated to the Birth of the Virgin Mary. As for Monza, make sure to visit the Autodromo , the state-of-the-art motor racing track, and the Villa Reale, a former royal residence. Then there is the Cathedral, where the ancient Iron Crown is kept, reputedly concealing a nail from the True Cross.

In Brescia , of particular interest is the Saint Salvatore Monastery, while the craft and tradition of violin-making, most famously seen in the work of Stradivarius, lives on in Cremona . Pavia is the "City of 100 Towers,” the Visconti Castle, and a renowned University. Meanwhile, Varese is known as the “Garden Province,” and Sondrio hosts the stupendous Masegra Castle, which owes its charm to its fusion of diverse epochs and styles. Lecco 's fame can be attributed to I Promessi Sposi, a masterpiece of a novel by Italian author Alessandro Manzoni, who opened the book with the image of the splendid branch of Lake Como where the city stands. Bergamo , rather, is the site of the Accademia Carrara, one of the largest Italian painting galleries; the Colleoni Chapel and the Teatro Donizetti, dedicated to Bergamo's most illustrious citizen and composer. The Medieval city of Lodi is characterized by the porticoes in Piazza della Vittoria, decorated by the Duomo and the Palazzo Comunale.

Finally, Como , on the extreme western arm of the lake, is known for its gorgeous villas, e.g. Villa Olmo, an imposing Neoclassical structure. The mountains, the plains and grand lakes of Lombardy form the perfect backdrop for a vacation filled with nature, athletics, rest and routes for discovering the territory. The mountain peaks welcome ski and snowboard enthusiasts to internationally-famous ski destinations, like the Camonica Valley and Valtellina , with their popular resorts of Livigno , Bormio, Aprica and hundreds of kilometers of slopes to match every ability level. In summertime, the mountains offer the excitement of scaling the Adamello and other ranges, as well as possibilities for rafting, trekking and mountain biking, while the Stelvio Glacier offers skiers the challenge and adventure of its slopes, even in the warmest months. The mountains of Lombardy are also a good place for a relaxing holiday, thanks to the various spas rich in therapeutic thermal waters - for example the Boario and Bormio Spas, surrounded by a beautiful park.

Lake Garda, just like Lakes Como and Iseo, ensures a restful and entertaining holiday, with the chance to sail, windsurf, water ski, canoe, cycle, trek, boat and take excursions to the surrounding areas. Tourists can choose from countless itineraries that will allow them to discover Lombardy’s most distinctive and unique features. The Sacred Mountains (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site ) offer exceptional spiritual and natural trails. In Valchiavenna one can discover the traditions of a land that was the meeting point between Italy and Northern Europe for centuries. The nature reserves around the Navigli Canals reveal many different and enchanting landscapes, from the hills of Brianza to the green banks of the River Adda. Gourmands can follow any, or indeed all, the Wine Trails, from Valtellina to the Lodi area, as well as to the Pavia Oltrepò or to around Mantua, and ending in Franciacorta , famed all over the world for its sparkling wines. This is a unique journey through the vineyard-covered terraces and hills, stopping off at wineries and local producers to imbibe their delicious wines and taste the well-known local specialties.

Lombardy’s food specialties range from delicious saffron risotto and the breadcrumbed cutlet cotoletta alla Milanese, to the consommé of Pavia with its egg accompaniment and a pork and cabbage cassoulet. Valtellina’s contributions to Lombardy gastronomy include pizzoccheri (a buckwheat version of tagliatelle), bresaola (air-dried salt beef), cured salame of Varzi and finally, fresh water fish, especially the dried and grilled lake whitefish. Among the region’s most celebrated and delicious cheeses are Gorgonzola, from the town of the same name; Mascarpone; the unpasteurised Lodigiano; parmesan-style Grana; Robiola soft cheese; and Bel Paese. Milan’s panettone and other Christmas sweets are renowned worldwide, as are the almond-flavoured Amaretto liqueur from Saronno, Mantua’s sbrisolona (crumb cake), and nougats from Cremona.

Lombardy’s wines go by names like Grumello, Inferno, and Sassella della Valtellina, while the wines and spumante produced in Franciacorta occupy a monumental spot in this category, particularly the Bonarda and Barbera wines of Pavia Province. Lombardy Travel Guide to Lombardy - Boutique and Small Luxury Hotels | Slow-Chic Places to stay This prosperous and highly diverse Italian region is home to the world's largest concentration of UNESCO heritage sites. There are literally hundreds of cultural and natural attractions in the region, which range from imposing religious buildings to some of Europe's most spectacular mountain landscapes. Lombardy's towns are bustling centres of activity dominated by brilliant architecture and countless works of art. But this is also a land of contrasts, and rural Lombardy is the perfect destination for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. Rolling hills and idyllic meadows merge with the mighty peaks of the Alps. Here and there, charming villages offer a respite from the hectic pace of urban life and a chance to succumb to the truly Italian dolce vita. And the most romantic lake sceneries, too. When to travel to Lombardy Due to its landlocked location, Lombardy's climate is predominantly continental.

The region's mountain areas experience abundant rainfall and snowfall during the winter, and the summers are typically wet too. In other areas, winter temperatures that hover around 0°C are not uncommon, although the summer brings average temperatures of 25°C and above. As a result, the summer months are usually considered the best time to visit Lombardy, although travellers must remember that the most popular countryside and lake destinations will be crowded at this time of the year. The shoulder season (September, October, April, and May) is a good alternative both in terms of the weather and the number of visitors. Sights and attractions in Lombardy There is so much to see and do in Lombardy that it would be impossible to take it all in even after repeated visits to the region. Lombardy's elegant and inspiring cities make great city break destinations, offering unrivalled shopping opportunities, a vibrant cultural life, fine dining and wining, and first-class hospitality. Hundreds of museums are spread around this diverse Italian region, offering an opportunity to discover the many elements that constitute Lombardy's rich heritage. In fact, there are whole tows in this region that could considered living museums. And there is Lombardy's stunning natural environment.

Visitors come here to relax by crystal clear lakes, to get their fill of pure and clean mountain air, and to explore the wine-growing regions of the south, such as the little-known Oltrepo Pavese area, where visitors can get a taste of authentic rural life in Italy. Throughout the region, castles and medieval fortresses command panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Lombardy is home to one national park (the Stelvio), which also happens to be Italy's largest. Here, glaziers, dramatic ridges, waterfalls, and grasslands come together creating a living work of art. Lombardy's natural environment lends itself to the practice of multiple sports, such as skiing, swimming, rock climbing, mountain biking, and horse riding. Main cities in Lombardy: Milan, Bergamo, Monza, Como, Mantova. Main attractions in Lombardy: Milan's cathedral (Il Duomo), the Scala Theatre, Mantua's historical centre, Cremona's violin-making artisans, Maggiore, Iseo, Como and Garda lakes and the picturesque villages that sit on their shores; and the Cascate del Serio waterfalls (Europe's second tallest).

The most beautiful villages in Lombardy: Zavattarello, Fortunago, Pizzale, Morimondo, Pandino, Soncino, Tremezzo, Camerata Cornello, Curiglia con Monteviasco. Food and drinks of Lombardy Like in the rest of Italy, food and drinks have a prominent place in the daily life of Lombardy's inhabitants. A visit to this region is indeed an opportunity to indulge in a gastronomic feast thanks to the varied range of ingredients on offer. Some popular regional specialties include risotto alla Milanese (saffron rice); cotoletta (veal or beef breaded cutlets served with potatoes and herbs); tortelli di zucca (pumpkin-filled ravioli); brasato di manzo (beef stew); and fish-based dishes featuring perch, shad, and whitefish. Traditional Italian desserts are also available here, such as the world-famous panettone or the sweet dough puffs called fritelle mantovani. These desserts are typically accompanied by a shot of Amaretto, the delicious almond-flavoured liqueur produced in Saronno, southern Lombardy.

There is a huge variety in terms of the local cheeses, which include Gorgonzola, Nisso dell’Oltrepo, Caprini, Formaggella di Menconico, Taleggio, Grana Padano, Bitto, Robiola, Mascarpone, Bel Paese, Lodigiano, and Valtellina. Lombard wines are widely recognised among connoisseurs from all over the world. The most well-known varieties are Lugana, Bardolino,Oltrepo Metodo Classico, Valtellina, Garganega, Trebiano, Franciacorta, Saten, Sangue di Giuda, Capriano del Colle, Botticino, Inferno, Grumello, Barbera, Bonarda, Sasella, and Grumello.

About Lombardy: The Lakes Region - Lakes - Travel ideas You are in Home / Travel ideas / Lakes / Lombardy: The Lakes Region Lombardy: The Lakes Region Panoramic Shot of Lake Maggiore Lago Maggiore - Santa Caterina Monastery Lake Garda - Villa Cavazza-Borghese Lake Garda - Sirmione - Aerial View Lake Garda - Malcesine Lake Iseo - Rock of Loreto Lake Iseo - Montisola Lombardy , with its grand lakes and numerous small basins, offers a unique mix of charms to lovers of lake tourism. Staying on Lake Garda , Lake Como , Lake Maggiore or Iseo (just to name the largest and most famous), means immersing oneself in all the flourish of a lush nature that also has the power to renew the mind and body. The gorgeous landscapes of Lombardy’s lakes bring together the fascination of villages lost in time, near-ancient castles and monasteries, superb villas, places rich in history and character, and intriguing museums.

Athletics enthusiasts also have at their disposition a choice of “open-air gyms” where they can practice sport in water, air or on land: swimming, canoe, windsurfing, rock-climbing, mountain-biking, trekking, horesback riding, hang-gliding, rafting and golf are just some of the activities on offer. The blessed geographic position of each lake permits a completely relaxing vacation that is, if one so wishes, near to city centers that are highly important in terms of art, history and culture – i.e. Milan , Brescia and Mantua . Foodies and those passionate for fine cuisine could possibly be overwhelmed by the choice in store for the mas well: restaurants all over the lake district serve all the typical delicacies, including a long list of lake-inhabiting fish (carp, whitefish, trout, pike, and white bass), plus the excellent Garda olive oil, asparagus from Rogaro and Drezzo, and DOC wines like Chiaretto, Bardolino and Lugana. All the lakes invite tourists to a singular and particular experience, beginning with Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy.

Here, the magnificent scenery was enough to inspire celebrated personages the likes of Catullus, Dante Alighieri, Goethe, Byron and Stendhal. The communities facing the lake – Sirmione , with the Rocca Scaligera and Grotto of Catullus, and the Gardone Riviera , with its magical Art Nouveau buildings, Bogliaco, Campione and Limone . Garda is a spot where vacationers can truly customize their entire trip and stay: from ancient borgoes to vivacious and crowded downtowns, from lakeshores that are perfectly-tailored to families to amusement parks, and from natural reserves to natural spas (such as the famous terme at Sirmione and at Lazise). Lake Maggiore , Italy’s second lake for extent, boasts spectacular views and a temperate climate, imposing mountains and green hills, forts and villas – all contributing to its status as an important touristic destination since the days of the “Grand Tour.” Lake Maggiore is also one of the most splendidly evocative locations in the world to practice windsurfing, while the surrounding greens are a great attraction for golfers.

We highly recommend an excursion to the National Park of Val Grande , one of the foremost wilderness areas in Italy. Lake Como, with its upside-down Y form, gave to the world the inventor Alessandro Volta and the writer Alessandro Manzoni, who set the book I Promessi Sposi (The Betrothed) the branch of the lake that contains Lecco. The lake’s center (i.e. center of the Y) features perhaps one of the most famous and awe-inspiring Italian images in the world: the beautiful panorama that comprises the fantastic Villa d’Este (Cernobbio), Villa Serbelloni and Villa Melzi ( Bellagio ), and Villa Passalacqua (Moltrasio). Lake Como is the ne plus ultra in a number of aspects, and a paradise for those who enjoy practicing water sports, paragliding, trekking, horseback riding, mountain-biking, rock-climbing and golf (with 7 courses tucked into the surrounding greens). Lake Iseo , the smallest of Lombardy’s “great lakes,” sits between the Provinces of Bergamo and Brescia .

Admittedly, the real pearl of Lake Iseo is Montisola , the largest lake island in all of Europe. With summer comes the possibility to partake in a variety of water sports and, with winter, the fun of ski awaits in nearby Valcamonica , just 30 kilometers (19 miles) away. Useful Information Trips 2 Italy | Travel guide and Information about Lombardy | Plan your trip to discover Lombardy in Italy Packages Lombardy This description page of the Italian region of Lombardy, will guide you in planning your trip to Italy and help you find useful travel information about this Italian region. the capital The region of Lombardy, or Lombardia in Italian, is characterized by the great city of Milan , smaller, historic but thriving municipalities, and beautiful scenery that changes dramatically from the majestic and breathtaking in the north to the plains in the south.

It stretches from the Alps on its northern edge with Switzerland, on the border with Switzerland in the north, down through the romantic Lake Como , the eastern part of Lake Maggiore and the western half of Lake Garda on the east, past the smaller lakes, scenic valleys near Bergamo, to the broad, flat plain with the River Po in the south, and the start of the Appennine Mountains in the southwest of the region. It is a populous region that is dominated by the ancient, but modern and very dynamic city of Milan, the largest city in Italy, which sits on the plain, roughly in the center of the region. It is the largest and wealthiest city in Italy. Though there are several cities that challenged Milan in the past such as Pavia , Mantua, Bergamo, and Como, its second most populous city, Brescia is only a fraction of its size at 200,000 residents. Bustling Milan is the business capital of Italy, and possibly the fashion capital of the world. It is the most advanced and important industrial, financial, commercial, transportation, couture and clothing, and agricultural center of Italy.

If you are traveling to Italy, you will likely be passing through the greater Milan area, as one of the two airports in the country that handles transatlantic flights, Malpensa, lies in its outskirts, and many of the trans-European trains connect through Milan. The geography of its key city of Milan on the fertile plains that are a natural junction of trade routes from the river Po, ports on the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian parts of the Mediterranean, and from the Alpine passes made it a center of commerce since its inception. The region has long been home to great patrons of the arts. Not just in Milan, but Bergamo , Mantua, too, which are renowned for their artwork. There are grand opera theaters in each of the cities and many of the towns. The region is the birthplace of Donizetti, and the inventor of the modern opera, Monteverdi. It played long-time host to the grand master of the Italian opera Verdi, who saw many of his works premiere in Milan, and where he died. It is the home of the center for the development and manufacture of the key instrument of classical European music, the violin, Cremona.

the great lakes region and the alps After Milan, Lombardy’s attraction is that of a region with the Alps providing an amazing background in the distance, beautiful lakes dotted with villas with beautiful gardens, impressive valleys and hills, of wealthy and attractive towns filled with imposing buildings and ornate Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance churches, and the skiing and winter sports center of Bormio, and the nearby the glacier-heavy Stelvio National Park. The beautiful Lake country, especially the largest lakes, Lake Garda, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore have been drawing tourists from all over Europe for the past couple centuries. Though several of the lakes are shared with the regions of Piedmont and Veneto to the west and east, plus Switzerland to north, Lombardy contains much of the best attractions, and certainly the easiest to access. At these large lakes, and the smaller ones such as Iseo, Varese and Orta, you can revel and relax in the serenity of the picturesque landscapes featuring verdant hills, the calming, still deep blue water, and the majestic Alps in the distance. Then there are water sports, and some of the region’s most splendid villas and gardens.

Two-legged Lake Como boasts sparkling blue-green waters set against the snowy peaks of the Alps. It has been a favored resort destination since Roman times. The ancient town of Como lies as a gateway at the southern end of the western leg of the lake. From the Piazza Cavour you can gaze at the beauty of the lake, and then stroll through the ancient Roman street plan and admire its attractive buildings and basilica. The town of Bellagio at the intersection of the legs of the Lake Como is regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in all of Italy. Much of the lake is dotted with villas and gardens. Long, thin Lake Maggiore is around 65 kilometers from end to end, and is home to stately hotels, quaint villages and the distinctive, attractive Borromean Islands. These are actually more accessible from the towns on the Piedmont side of the lake. The ornate, stately and somewhat garish Palazzo Borromeo that dominates the Isola Bella with its artwork and gardens, the largest of the three islands, Isola Madre which is entirely landscaped as a beautiful English garden, and the small Isole dei Pescatori, a dense fishing village.

Very popular with summer tourists, Lake Garda is the biggest of the lakes, lying between the Alps and the Pianura Padana. The towns of Desenzano del Garda, Sirmione and Riva del Garda are well worth visiting. Riva is one of Italy’s principal windsurfing centers. Italy’s version of Disneyland, Gardaland, lies east of Sirmione. The smaller lakes are also beautiful and worth visiting, if somewhat less touristy than the big three.

Question: Bergamo, Brescia and Cremona are three of the largest cities in which Italian region?
Answer: LOMBARDY